I probably had no business riding this morning. I had no energy. My lung congestion was dense. I just didn’t feel well. My goal was 50 miles before I climbed on the bike. After finally convincing myself to ride, I debated often how soon I would turn back. I needed 20 miles to stay on pace for my end of year goal. Any distance would add to my personal monthly distance record. I settled eventually on 30 miles and I’m glad I didn’t do more.

Very early into the ride I decided that this would be a day dedicated to a “recovery ride”. I’d let my maximum heart rate be 135 and tried to keep it much lower than that. My speed didn’t matter. Horror of horrors, I’d also let myself be passed, even by people on old mountain bikes (and it happened). I haven’t ridden this slow since April (recovery rides) and March (in blustery windy weather).

My mind was elsewhere. I didn’t really focus on anything other than keeping the pedals going. I think I’ll spend the day in quiet, restful activity and see if my body can recover.

This was a good learning day. I paid attention to how to ride based on what my body was telling me, and didn’t exceed that. We will see what tomorrow brings. It may be a rest day.